On January 12, 2023, the body of Brian Hamilton Berns, an unclaimed male, was found in Lakewood, Washington. The case has been registered with the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) under the ID UCP108050. Despite efforts by the authorities, no relatives or friends of Berns have been located to take responsibility for his remains. This has left the case open in the hope that someone who knew Berns or one of his acquaintances might come forward.
The Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office is the agency handling this sensitive matter. Based in Tacoma, Washington, at 3619 Pacific Avenue, the office has been the point of contact for any information related to Berns' case. They have encouraged individuals with any leads or claims to contact them directly at 253-798-6494. Although the body has been handled with the usual care and procedure, what's been particularly poignant is the lack of connection to Berns’ past through friends or family.
The case remains open, with the office maintaining that the cremains of Brian Hamilton Berns can be claimed by any individual at any time. This policy provides an ongoing opportunity for those who might have known him or felt a personal connection to take responsibility. The hope is that someone will come forward, providing closure not only in a logistical sense but also in the form of acknowledging Berns' presence in the world.
Date Found: 01/12/2023